Complete the worksheet! Family: Maple (Aceraceae) Height: 75-100' Tree: single trunk, ascending branches, open crown Leaf: lobed, 4-6" long, oppositely attached, 5-7 lobes, pointed tips, deep notches, and double-toothed margin, dull green above with a silvery white color below Bark: gray and smooth when young, becomes furrowed. long scaly strips, often peeling and curling at ends Flower: tiny red dangling flower, ¼" wide, on a 1-2" long stalk Fruit: pair of green winged seeds (samara), turning to brown, 1-2½" long Fall Color: yellow to orange Origin/Age: native; 100-125 years Habitat: wet to moist soils, often growing in pure stands in floodplains, shade Range: southern half of the state Interesting Facts: Usually seen growing in bottomlands or floodplains along rivers where it is often the dominant tree. One of the first trees to bloom (flower) in spring, confusing many to think it is budding early. Bark of older trees is characteristic, with long strips that often peel and curl at ends. Produces heavy seed crops. Also called Silver-leaf Maple, its common name coming from the silvery appearance beneath the leaves, and Soft Maple, which is also the same common name of the Red Maple. This name refers to the brittle branches (which often break off in windstorms), rather than to the wood being soft, the wood is actually very hard with a tight grain. Explore the tree species of Central Park!